Interrail Croatia Itinerary: Island Hopping Along the Dalmatian Coast
This 7-day Interrail adventure takes you from the historic streets of Split to the vibrant island of Hvar, concluding in the iconic walled city of Dubrovnik, all connected by scenic ferry journeys.
- 1Split
- 2Hvar
- 3Dubrovnik
Day 1: Arrive Split
Arrive in Split, a city rich in Roman history, and begin your exploration with its ancient heart and lively waterfront. Your journey starts at Split Airport (SPU), with the main ferry port and bus station centrally located near the Old Town.
Highlights
- Explore Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO-listed Roman palace forming the core of Split's Old Town.
- Stroll along the Riva promenade, Split’s lively seafront ideal for people-watching and harbor views.
- Visit the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, built from Diocletian’s mausoleum, showcasing Roman origins and medieval additions.
Day 2: Explore Split
Dedicate your day to Split's natural beauty and culinary delights, from forest trails to traditional Dalmatian dishes.
Highlights
- Discover Marjan Forest Park, offering walking trails, chapels, and superb viewpoints over the city and sea.
- Savour traditional Dalmatian cuisine at Konoba Varoš, known for pašticada and grilled fish in a rustic setting.
- Visit the Meštrović Gallery, displaying sculptures and drawings in the artist’s former seaside residence.
Day 3: Split -> Hvar
Take a scenic ferry journey to the island of Hvar, settling into Hvar Town and exploring its charming main square. Ferries from Split to Hvar take around 1 hour 11 minutes, with tickets starting from €6.
Highlights
- Board a ferry from Split to Hvar with operators like Krilo-Kapetan Luka, TP Line, or Krilo Shipping Company.
- Explore St. Stephen's Square, the main historic square of Hvar Town, framed by landmark buildings.
- Walk along the Hvar Riva, an elegant waterfront promenade lined with historic buildings and constant boat activity.
Day 4: Explore Hvar
Ascend to Hvar's historic fortress for breathtaking panoramic views, then delve into the island's cultural heritage.
Highlights
- Visit Fortica (Španjola Fortress), a hilltop 16th-century fortress offering panoramic views over Hvar Town and the Pakleni Islands.
- Discover the Hvar Heritage Museum, showcasing archaeological, maritime, and cultural collections of the island.
- Explore the Franciscan Monastery Museum, featuring paintings, liturgical objects, and manuscripts in a tranquil seaside setting.
Day 5: Hvar -> Dubrovnik
Embark on a ferry trip to the 'Pearl of the Adriatic,' Dubrovnik, and get your first glimpse of its magnificent Old Town. Ferries from Hvar to Dubrovnik take approximately 3 hours 33 minutes, with tickets starting from €50.
Highlights
- Travel by ferry from Hvar to Dubrovnik with operators such as TP Line or Krilo-Kapetan Luka.
- Stroll along Stradun, Dubrovnik's polished limestone main street, ideal for first walks and accessing key sights.
- Visit the Old Port, a working harbor offering classic views of the city walls, forts, and Lokrum island.
Day 6: Explore Dubrovnik
Walk the iconic Walls of Dubrovnik for unparalleled views, then explore the formidable Fort Lovrijenac.
Highlights
- Walk the Walls of Dubrovnik, an iconic medieval circuit offering sea and city views.
- Explore Fort Lovrijenac, a large 16th-century fortress famed for dramatic views and its historical defensive importance.
- Visit the Rector's Palace, a Gothic-Renaissance palace that once housed the Republic's rulers and is now a key historic landmark.
Day 7: Depart Dubrovnik
Enjoy a final morning exploring Dubrovnik's cultural treasures before your onward journey. The itinerary concludes in Dubrovnik, with departures from Dubrovnik Airport (DBV).
Highlights
- Visit the Cultural History Museum inside the Rector's Palace, presenting life and state rooms of the Dubrovnik Republic.
- Depart from Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), the recommended international airport for your onward travel.
- Consider Tivat Airport (TIV) in Montenegro or Mostar International Airport (OMO) in Bosnia and Herzegovina as alternative departure points, both accessible by private transfer.
